Crossmaglen Rangers footballer Caolan Finnegan was laid to rest at an emotional funeral service at St.

Patrick’s Church, Crossmaglen on Monday.

Before the service, his coffin was carried around his beloved Oliver Plunkett Park pitch by friends and teammates, including senior manager Kieran McGeeney and Armagh coach Ciaran McKeever.

Caolan, who passed away at the age of 20 last Friday, had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer last year.

The talented footballer had represented Armagh at underage level, and McGeeney remarked that Caolan would likely have joined the senior team this season if not for his illness.

He played for Crossmaglen as recently as last summer and scored a goal in the 2022 Ulster Championship final win over Granemore.

In keeping with the request of Caolan's family, many mourners at the mass wore GAA jerseys, and a photo of Caolan in his GAA jersey was displayed on the altar.

Following Armagh's victory in July's All-Ireland final, clubmate Oisin O'Neill wore a 'Care for Caolan' t-shirt to the post-match press conference to raise awareness of the fundraising campaign for Caolan's treatment.

At the mass, Parish Priest Father Dermot Maloney recalled the lift Armagh's win gave the youngster even as his health declined.

He mentioned that the Sam Maguire Cup visited Caolan’s house twice since the All-Ireland win, which brought him great joy during a difficult time.

Father Maloney concluded with a heartfelt farewell, expressing hope and affection for Caolan, and the belief that they would joyfully greet him again in the afterlife.

A touching tribute was paid to Caolan, highlighting his impact both on and off the field.

His gentle and unassuming manner endeared him to everyone he met, and his beautiful smile will be engraved in their hearts forever.

The message ended with, 'It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later.

Rest Easy, Stringer.

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